Bioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine system

ABSTRACT

A bioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine system for allowing an exerciser to control the state of an exercise machine and exercise environment. The bioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine system generally includes an exercise machine, a bioelectrical sensor device and a control unit in communication with the bioelectrical sensor device and the exercise machine. The control unit is adapted to receive data from the bioelectrical sensor device relating to measured bioelectrical signals of the human exerciser, and wherein the control unit transmits a control signal to the exercise machine to change the state of the exercise machine based on the data from the bioelectrical sensor device.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.17/062,778 filed on Oct. 5, 2020 which issues as U.S. Pat. No.11,458,365 on Oct. 4, 2022 which is a continuation of U.S. applicationSer. No. 15/181,377 filed on Jun. 13, 2016 now issued as U.S. Pat. No.10,792,538, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.62/174,649 filed Jun. 12, 2015. Each of the aforementioned patentapplications, and any applications related thereto, is hereinincorporated by reference in their entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable to this application.

BACKGROUND Field

Example embodiments in general relate to a bioelectrical signalcontrolled exercise machine system for allowing an exerciser to controlthe state of an exercise machine and exercise environment.

Related Art

Any discussion of the related art throughout the specification should inno way be considered as an admission that such related art is widelyknown or forms part of common general knowledge in the field. Thoseskilled in the art will appreciate that exercise machines generallyprovide for exercisers to change resistance settings based on theirstrength, size, training objectives, and other conditions unique to eachexerciser.

Typically, exercisers use exercise machines for a period of timenecessary to realize their workout objectives. For instance, anexerciser may perform ten repetitions of an exercise at one particularweight or resistance setting, then stop the exercise to change theweight or resistance to a different setting, then perform morerepetitions of the same exercise at the new weight.

The intermittent cycle of “exercise-stop-exercise” breaks the continuityof the exercise routine, and injects considerable non-exercise time intothe duration of the exercise session. This “down-time” during which anexerciser is changing the machine settings is effectively lost.Therefore, an exerciser desiring to exercise for forty-five minuteswould necessarily spend more than forty-five minutes for their sessionin order to account for the down-time. On the other hand, a gym ownerlooks at exerciser's “down times” as lost profits. When exercisersoccupy a machine for a longer period, fewer people are able to use themachine during the course of any given day.

SUMMARY

An example embodiment of the present invention is directed to abioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine system. Thebioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine system includes anexercise machine, a bioelectrical sensor device and a control unit incommunication with the bioelectrical sensor device and the exercisemachine. The control unit is adapted to receive data from thebioelectrical sensor device relating to measured bioelectrical signalsof the human exerciser, and wherein the control unit transmits a controlsignal to the exercise machine to change the state of the exercisemachine based on the data from the bioelectrical sensor device.

At least one embodiment of the present invention is a new and novelsystem and method providing for an exerciser to set or change theirentire exercise experience, and more specifically change one or moreelements of the exercise environment by means of transmitting electricalsignals generated by one or more electrodes or microphones placed on anexerciser's body.

At least one embodiment of the present invention comprises the use of aplurality of electrodes that sense electrical energy generated by thebrain and/or muscles, and transmit the amplified signal to a processorand controller to selectively change two or more elements related to theexercise environment. Additionally, at least one embodiment of thepresent invention provides for the use of voice commands to controladditional elements related to the exercise environment.

The elements of a typical exercise environment, preferably in a gym orsimilar fitness facility, include the lighting of the facility, theheating or cooling level, music intended to establish an exercise tempo,weight or resistance settings that are continually changed for differentexercises, or to accommodate exercisers of different strength levels,and the sequence of exercises that would be performed over the course ofthe intended exercise period.

One embodiment of the present invention uses two or moreelectroencephalogram (EEG) electrodes, and/or two or more surfaceelectromyography (EMG) electrodes, and/or a voice-input device,individually or together which sense electrical signal inputs generatedon demand by the exerciser, in order to control a multiple of elementsof the typical exercise environment as just described.

One embodiment of the present invention is a new and novel method ofcontrolling two or more discrete elements of the exercise environment,input into the system preferably comprises at least discrete inputsources though not required. Therefore, the multi-channel input into thecontroller of the embodiment may be preferably expressed as one of thefollowing:

EEG1 and EEG2=two discrete output control signals.

EMG1 and EMG2=two discrete output control signals.

EEG and MIC (microphone)=two discrete output control signals.

Using the simple formulae just described, a larger number of controlsignals driving various changes to the exerciser environment may begenerated by an expanded formula that may consist of multiple sourceinputs. For example, control signals (CS) controlling seven differentexercise environment variables may rely on sensor inputs consisting of:

-   -   EEG1; EEG2; EMG1; EMG2; EMG3; EMG4; MIC1=CS1; CS2; CS3; CS4;        CS5; CS6; CS7

An EEG detects electrical activity in the brain using small conductiveelectrodes in contact with the scalp. Two EEG electrodes are required toread electrical brain activity, the two electrodes comprising onechannel. Therefore, an EEG “helmet” or headband worn by the exerciserprovides for retaining a multiple of electrodes, and maintains thoseelectrodes in communication with the scalp to thereby generate at leasttwo output channels.

When EEG tests are performed in a clinical environment, for instance, atthe neurology department in a hospital, the patient typically laysquietly, without movement, so as not to disrupt the signals. However, inan exercise environment, exercisers are physically active whileperforming exercises. This high intensity muscle movement generateselectromyography signals that can degrade the electroencephalographsignals. Spurious signals that degrade EEG signals are referred to asartifacts.

Artifacts typically encountered in an exercise facility include:

-   -   Artifacts with movement of the electrodes—which occurs during        exercise,    -   Artifacts from EMG signals generated by activity of muscles        close to EEG electrodes,    -   Artifacts with ambient 110V power in facility    -   Artifacts from poor/loss of electrode grounding that can result        in spikes of up to 50-60 Hz.

EMG tests for athletes are well known by those skilled in the art. Motorneurons are electrical signals that cause muscles to contract.Therefore, higher value electrical signals are produced by the musclesbeing contracted. The electrical potential of the muscle membrane rangesfrom 50 μV, and up to 20 to 30 mV depending on the muscle activated.Similar to EEG signals that are continually generated based on aperson's mental and physical activity, EMG signals are inherentlygenerated whenever muscles contract. Also similar to EEG signals, aperson can intentionally contract a muscle as a mind-commanded means ofgenerating a specific on-demand electrical signal that can be used tocontrol an event.

Therefore, the embodiment of the present invention as just describedfurther provides for the use of EMG as another mind-initiated, on-demandgenerator of electrical signals that control specific events while atthe same time, allowing the exerciser to continue to exercise. Suchevents may include for instance, increasing the volume of music playing,or changing the resistance level of an exercise machine.

It is well known to those artisans that all EEG and EMG signals have thepotential to degrade as a result of artifacts. It was thereforediscovered that the use of more than one type of electrode, and the useof multiple electrodes provided a larger number of data streams that,when analyzed together, help reduce the occurrence or impact ofartifacts, and provide a means to validate the mind-controlled signalsused to modify the exerciser's environment.

Anticipating a large number of artifacts that could degrade the EEGsignal, various embodiments provide for at least one algorithm thatincorporates amplification, buffering and low pass filtering of the EEGsignal to increase the signal to noise ratio between the EEG andartifact signals, and smoothing of the wave form to normalize out ofcharacter data, thereby reducing the influence of artifacts on thedesired channel signal.

Various embodiments provide for yet a third method of generating amind-controlled signal. By means of a throat microphone, the exercisermay elect when to speak, and specifically what word to speak, therebyactivating a voice recognition circuit that creates an output signalcorrelating to one or more words programmed into a voice actuationprocessor. The voice-actuated control may be used in conjunction withEEG and EMG signals. For instance, an on-demand mind-generated alphawave may actuate a motor to increase the angle of the exercise plane frothe horizontal. While the exerciser maintains the brain wave level, themotor will continue to increase the exercise angle. By speaking apreprogrammed word, for instance “stop”, the exerciser can override theEEG signal and cause the inclination to temporarily stop at the desiredangle.

As can be readily appreciated, an exerciser, while exercising, mayconcentrate on various thought, muscle contraction and/or voice commandactuation of one or more control signals, all of the control signalsbeing thought stimulated, to control one or more elements of theexerciser's environment.

More specifically, the various embodiments teach one or more systemsthat will allow an exerciser to automatically change the varioussettings on an exercise machine, change music or tempo of soundslistened to during exercise, change the ambient room temperature orchange room lighting simply by training their mind to actuate one ormore neurobiological or voice sensors

As can readily be appreciated, the new and novel method ofmind-controlling exercise machine settings allow the exerciser tocontinue exercising without interruption, and without removing theirhands from an exercise machine in order to physically change machinesettings or other elements of their exercise environment.

Therefore, one exemplary embodiment of the present invention is systemand method providing for an exerciser to control elements of theirexercise environment by means of intentionally increasing ionic currentwithin the certain neurons of the brain, the current being sensed by EEGelectrodes in contact with the exerciser's scalp.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is system andmethod providing for an exerciser to control elements of their exerciseenvironment by means of intentionally thinking about, and thereforecontracting specific muscles to increase neuromotor electrical signallevels as sensed by EMG electrodes placed in contact with theexerciser's scalp or face.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is system andmethod providing for an exerciser to control elements of their exerciseenvironment by means of intentionally thinking about, and thereforespeaking certain words into a microphone, the words having beenpreprogrammed to correlate to actuation of a specific output signal thatcontrols one or more elements of their environment.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is a system andmethod providing for an exerciser to think about, and therefore controlelements of their exercise environment without the use of their hands,by means of actuating one or more EMG, EEG and/or microphone sensorsworn by the exerciser.

Yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is a deviceworn about the head of an exerciser, the device containing at least apower supply, a plurality of electrodes capable of generating at leasttwo channels of signals, the electrode pairs comprising EEG electrodes,EMG electrodes, a means of amplifying the electrode signals, and a meansof transmitting the signals to a signal processor.

Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is a device wornabout the head of an exerciser, the device containing at least a powersupply, a microphone, a plurality of electrodes capable of generating atleast two channels of signals, the electrode pairs comprising EEGelectrodes, EMG electrodes, a means of amplifying the electrode signals,and a means of transmitting the signals to a signal processor.

Yet another exemplary embodiment of the present invention is at leastsignal conditioning algorithm that processes EEG and/or EMG signals tosubstantially reduce the detrimental effects of artifacts that areincreasingly present when neuromotor and other neurobiological signalsare sensed on a rapidly moving exerciser during exercising.

These and other embodiments will become known to one skilled in the art,especially after recognizing the commercial value of exercisers beingable to control exercise machine settings and other elements of theirexercise environment simply by thinking about changing one or moreelements, the control means thereby reducing the total exercise periodby eliminating any interruption of their exercise routine to manuallychange any machine or other settings. The time-savings of the presentinvention correlate positively to increased profits for the gym facilityin which the present invention is implements as a means to controlelements of each exerciser's environment. The present invention is notintended to be limited to the disclosed embodiments.

There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, some of the features ofthe bioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine system in orderthat the detailed description thereof may be better understood, and inorder that the present contribution to the art may be betterappreciated. There are additional features of the bioelectrical signalcontrolled exercise machine system that will be described hereinafterand that will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto. Inthis respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of thebioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine system in detail, it isto be understood that the bioelectrical signal controlled exercisemachine system is not limited in its application to the details ofconstruction or to the arrangements of the components set forth in thefollowing description or illustrated in the drawings. The bioelectricalsignal controlled exercise machine system is capable of otherembodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways.Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminologyemployed herein are for the purpose of the description and should not beregarded as limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Example embodiments will become more fully understood from the detaileddescription given herein below and the accompanying drawings, whereinlike elements are represented by like reference characters, which aregiven by way of illustration only and thus are not limitative of theexample embodiments herein.

FIG. 1 a is a front view of an exerciser on a horizontal surfaceperforming an exercise.

FIG. 1B is a front view of an exerciser on an inclined surfaceperforming an exercise.

FIG. 1 c is a chart illustrating various elements related to anexerciser's environment.

FIG. 2 is an exemplary diagram of a brain wave frequency chart.

FIG. 3 is an exemplary diagram of a representative exerciser wearing anelectroencephalograph electrode outfitted headband.

FIG. 4 is an exemplary diagram illustrating differences in brainwavefrequency response during exercise.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary diagram of a representative exerciser wearing anelectroencephalograph and electromyography electrode outfitted headband.

FIG. 6 is an exemplary diagram showing a multi-channel mind controlledexercise machine adjustment system.

FIG. 7 is an exemplary diagram showing one system and method oftranslating EEG signals into control circuits to adjust an exercisemachine.

FIG. 8 a-8 c is an exemplary diagram showing a representative exerciserwearing a throat microphone, and a list of voice command instructions,and a block diagram of a control circuit for adjusting an exercisemachine.

FIG. 9 is an upper perspective view of an exemplary exercise machinewith a movable carriage.

FIG. 10 is a side view of an exemplary exercise machine in a horizontalstate.

FIG. 11 is a side view of an exemplary exercise machine in an inclinedstate.

FIG. 12 is a front view of an exemplary exercise machine in an inclinedstate.

FIG. 13 is a front view of an exemplary exercise machine in an inclinedstate and rotated to the side about the roll axis.

FIG. 14 is an upper perspective view of an exemplary exercise machinethat is adapted to pivot and/or roll.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating the communications between thesensor unit, the control unit, the exercise machine and variousenvironmental systems.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An example bioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine systemgenerally includes an exercise machine, a bioelectrical sensor deviceand a control unit in communication with the bioelectrical sensor deviceand the exercise machine. The control unit is adapted to receive datafrom the bioelectrical sensor device relating to measured bioelectricalsignals of the human exerciser, and wherein the control unit transmits acontrol signal to the exercise machine to change the state of theexercise machine based on the data from the bioelectrical sensor device.

The phrase “exercise environment” is used herein to mean one or more ofany physical element with which an exerciser engages before, during orafter exercising on an exercise machine in a gym facility, examples ofwhich include but are not limited to resistance setting, weight setting,attitude of the exercising plane, room temperature, room lighting level,type or volume of music. Audible or visual cues to exercise tempo, andtype of exercises and the sequence of exercises performed during aworkout session, each of which may be referred to as a environmental“element” without specificity as to which element is being referred tounless a specific element is named.

Control circuits are well known to those skilled in the art. It shouldbe noted that it is not the objective of the embodiments herein to limitthe architecture or function of a control system of any particularcontrol system design or method, but rather to broadly describe theapplicability of control systems when used to change elements of anexercise environment which may include but not be limited to switches,solenoids, potentiometers, and valves. The broadest interpretationshould be given to control systems as they may apply to controlling anyelement of the exerciser's environment.

FIGS. 1 a-1 c are exemplary diagrams illustrating various elementsrelated to and exerciser's environment. During the course of a typicalexercise routine, exercisers must address various elements of theirenvironment in order to benefit from their workout. Other elements aretypically out of the hands of exercisers who must rely on the gymestablishment to.

More specifically, a typical exerciser 100 exercises on a substantiallyhorizontal plane 101. During the exercise, the exerciser will select acertain weight 102 that provides a resistance equivalent against whichthey will exercise muscles. In some environments, the exerciser willhear music 103 that motivates the exerciser or establishes an exercisetempo 104.

One embodiment of the present invention provides for an exerciser tomodify the elements of their exercise environment, hands-free, bycontrolling the elements with their mind. For instance, the exercisercan select a heavier weight 106 by concentrating on an actuation meansto change the machine resistance settings. The exerciser may also focusthoughts so that actuators change the substantially horizontal exerciseplane to an inclined plane 105, while at the same time providing theexerciser a hands-free means to change the music 108 by actuating amusic control circuit. The exerciser may also change the room lightingfrom bright light, to dimmed light 107, while at the same time allow theexerciser to increase the frequency, and hence tempo 109 of an audiblesound.

Although not exhaustive, typical elements encountered in their exerciseenvironment are listed in the exercise environment chart 110. It ispreferable that each and every one of these elements be modifiable by anexerciser from time to time during their exercise routine, andespecially without having to stop the routine, dismount the exercisemachine, make any preferred adjustment, then re-mount and re-start theirroutine.

FIG. 2 is an exemplary diagram of a brain wave frequency chart. Morespecifically, healthy human brains generate different brain waves atdifferent frequencies and amplitudes throughout the day, depending ontheir activity. Electrical signals increase as groups of neurons areaccessed to perform a function. Brain wave rhythms are generallyaccepted to include alpha, beta, gamma, delta and theta waves 200, eachwith a corresponding frequency range 201, and a fluctuation amplitude202. As can be readily seen in the chart, the amplitude changes 203 ineach of the rhythms correlate to mental activity.

At least one embodiment therefore provides for EEG electrodes to sense,record and transmit brainwave fluctuations that correspond to certainbrain activity, the EEG signals ultimately controlling various circuitsto change elements of the exerciser's environment. As an exerciserpractices mental activity to actuate a control circuit, they becomebetter at controlling changes in brainwave activity upon demand.

For example, an exerciser who wanted to increase the exercise resistanceof a machine may focus on changing their alpha and beta wave amplitudein order to actuate a circuit that would change the resistance. If thecontrol circuit is triggered when there is a maximum differentialbetween alpha and beta brainwaves compared to the running normaldifference between these rhythms, the exerciser may lower their alphaamplitude by increasing their mental focus and visual interaction withtheir surroundings, while at the same time increasing beta by exertingmental efforts and visually engaging with their surroundings.

FIG. 3 is an exemplary diagram of a representative exerciser 300 wearinga bioelectrical sensor device 310 to measure electrical signals from theexerciser's body. (e.g. an electroencephalograph electrode outfittedheadband). More specifically, one embodiment of a headband of thepresent invention comprises an adjustable band 301 (e.g. elastic andstretchable such as an elastic headband), one first EEG electrode 302,one second EEG electrode 303, one ear clip electrode 305, and a powersupply and signal transmission means 304.

During exercise, at least two electrodes record and transmit to acomputer EEG signals related to neuron activity proximal to theelectrodes. The two electrodes create a single channel for communicatingthe signal to a computer via a wireless communication means. Although asingle channel comprises two electrodes, a headband providing for aplurality of electrodes that output at least two channels is preferred.

Many different types of EEG headbands or helmets are known to thoseskilled in the art, many of which are cumbersome, require a laborioussetup protocol, and many of which are hard wired to a receivingcomputer. However, many of these types of EEG helmets or sensors are notconducive for use in an exercise environment. It is preferred that theexerciser, who is highly mobile when exercising, wear an EEG headbandthat is light weight, provides for the minimum number of electrodesrequired to control the desired number of circuits, and that is inwireless communication with the system controller.

FIG. 4 is an exemplary diagram illustrating differences in brainwavefrequency response during exercise. More specifically, the chart 400displays actual EEG signals that were obtained through testing on anexerciser wearing a light weight, wireless EEG headband as previouslydescribed. During exercise, the amplitude of the alpha and beta waveswere independently recorded. In many cases, it can be seen that theamplitude changes of the two rhythms were very similar. In one instance,402, the amplitude of the average alpha far exceeded the amplitude ofthe beta at the same point in time during the test. This differentialoccurred within approximately two seconds, and may be attributed to anartifact.

More importantly, while alpha generally exceeded beta in amplitude, acondition occurred wherein the exerciser maintained a significantamplitude increase in beta relative to alpha 401. The duration of thiscondition exceeded five seconds, illustrating a consciousness on thepart of the exerciser to focus on intensifying beta activity. Oneembodiment of the invention recognizes this preferred condition for apredetermined minimum time duration, activates a circuit that controlsthe change in one element of the exerciser's environment.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary diagram of a representative exerciser 200 wearingan electroencephalograph and electromyography electrode outfittedheadband 503. It can be readily seen that the headband provides formultiple channel outputs that, correspondingly, control multipleelements of the exerciser's environment by generating thought-activatedsignals. The headband comprises at least two EEG electrodes 202, and atleast two EMG electrodes 500. It is well known that EMG electrodesrecord neuromuscular electrical signal activity of the muscles proximalto the electrodes. As a means to provide for more than one EMG channel,a chin strap comprising at least two EMG electrodes 501 placed proximalto mandibular and temporal muscles allow for the exerciser to increaseelectrical signal levels, and therefore control specific controlcircuits by intentionally focusing thoughts on activating the targetedmuscles by flexing their chin, of clenching their teeth. In practice,data received from all of the electrodes is amplified and transmittedwirelessly in real time from the headband to a receiver and controller.

Therefore, the headband and chin strap comprising multiple EEG and EMGelectrodes provides for an exerciser to thoughtfully actuate a pluralityof control circuits during exercising, each control circuit therebypreferably controlling one of multiple elements in their environment.U.S. Pat. No. 8,812,075 to Neurosky, Inc. discloses an exemplary sensorheadset suitable for use with the various embodiments of the presentinvention and is hereby incorporated by reference herein. U.S.Publication No. 2014/01487,15 filed by Neurosky, Inc. discloses varioustypes of biosensors that are suitable for use with the variousembodiments of the present invention and is also hereby incorporated byreference herein.

FIG. 6 is an exemplary diagram showing a multi-channel mind controlledexercise machine adjustment system. A headband as previously describedprovides for a plurality of sensors including two channels of EEGelectrodes 600, electrodes for one EMG channel 601, and an audio sensordevice 602 (e.g. a throat microphone 602). It should be noted that theconfiguration of input sensors is not meant to be limiting, and anynumber of any combination of any of the sensors just described may beused in a multi-channel mind controlled exercise machine.

An exerciser may actuate each or all of a plurality of channels byfocusing one or more thoughts toward generating increased electricalactivity in the brain, in muscles by intentionally stimulating one ormore muscles, and/or by consciously considering a particular voicecommand correlating to controlling a specific desired element of theirexercise environment.

Amplifiers 603 provide for increasing the signal strength of theneurobiological signals detected by the electrodes. Further, filters,such as low pass or high pass filters provide for scrubbing artifactsfrom the electrode-input electrodes. Depending on the brain wave rhythmpreferred for processing as a mind controllable signal, the high pass orlow pass filters, and in some cases both filter ranges will be used toattenuate the artifacts. Filters are preferably used to clean the signalfrom EMG electrodes as well, the filters being selected based on thefrequencies of the desired and non-desired ranges.

The amplifiers and filters just described may be integrated into EEG andEMG electrode modules, and may not be discrete components through whichthe neurobiological signals pass. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that microphone circuits are well known, and any recognizedcircuit may be used for receiving and communicating a voice input to asignal acquisition module 605 preferably affixed to the headband. Theacquisition module further provides for multiplexing a plurality of EEG,EMG and mic signals, all of the signals together being transmitted to acontroller module by means of an RF transmitter 606. The RF signals maybe transmitted to the controller by communication wire, but arepreferably communicated via a wireless communication link 607.

An RF Receiver circuit 608 receives the multiplexed signal. An analog todigital circuit 609 converts the signals to digital format forprocessing by a digital signal processor 610. The process of receiving,converting and processing analog signals is not meant to be limiting.The large body of art is well known, and any recognized receiving,converting and processing circuit may be used without no effect on theintended function of the various embodiments of the present invention.

A multi-channel controller 611 provides for processing each of thereceived signals to activate a specific circuit that will control itsrespective element. In practice, and merely for example, a first EEGchannel A may be used to actuate a motor to increase the angle of anexercise platform, while a second EEG channel B is used to increase themusic volume of the exercise music. A third channel C from EMGelectrodes may be used to increase the resistance setting of theexercise machine. Each of the channels just described would be actuatedby various means practiced by the exerciser, including placing theirmind is a meditative state with eyes closed in order to increase alphaamplitude relative to beta, the predetermined differential beingachieved thereby triggers the respective output control signal. A secondcondition wherein the exerciser opens their eyes and focuses on themachine element, and strongly visualizes a change in machine attitudeincreases the beta signal amplitude relative to the alpha, thepredetermined differential being achieved thereby triggers itsrespective output control channel.

In both of the just described cases, once the intentional thoughtprocess actuates the control output signal, for instance, a motor thatturns on to elevate the exercise machine, the switch could remain openuntil the exerciser speaks a control word “stop” into a microphone, theword having been preprogrammed to terminate any EEG or EMG originatedcontrol signal.

Although many variations of the system of controlling a plurality ofcontrol signals that modify one or more elements of the exerciser'senvironment may be used without deviating from the purposed function ofcontrolling signals using mind-originated thoughts, and the headbandand/or variations of the headband previously described by rely on one ormore channels generated by EEG, EMG and/or mic signals, independently orin combination with one another, to describe every possibleconfiguration and circuit design would be burdensome, but wouldnevertheless illustrate the broad application of the new and novelmethod of exercisers being able to mind control many elements withintheir exercise environment, hands-free, and on demand during the courseof their exercising.

FIG. 7 is an exemplary diagram showing one system and method oftranslating EEG signals into a control circuit to adjust an exercisemachine. A software program for a control circuit is launched 700wherein brainwave signal input variables are defined, time periodsduring which the brainwave signal must be received to create a result,and terminal contacts for a serial port output are defined.

Not shown, a headband with at least two EEG electrodes is affixed to anexerciser, and is powered on so that neurobiological electrical signalsare sensed by the electrodes. Signals received by the electrodes arecommunicated to the control circuit 701 and parsed into the variousrhythms including alpha, beta, gamma, theta and delta, all of which arecharacterized by different frequencies. The selected frequencies beingdefined in the setup 700 establish the rhythms that will be used by thecontroller 704 to control the machine function.

Presented as one example, alpha “A” and beta “B” frequencies are used inthe illustration. The electrode-sensed signal amplitude changes of the Aand B frequencies are monitored over time, with normalization of thesignal by the controller to compute a running average of the amplitudechanges as a means of smoothing what are oftentimes highly erraticsignal changes. The smoothed data stream thereby becomes a more reliabledata source upon which to apply control function rules.

At the start of the exemplary exercise, an exerciser is positioned on anexercise machine positioned on a substantially horizontal plane. Variousrules, having been previously established, provide for signal conditionsthat correlate to controller function. For instance, a first ruleestablishes a T/F gate that compares amplitude changes of A and Bfrequencies. If A does not equal B, an switch 707 is opened to allow formachine control. If A equals B, the switch is closed 705 and a “null”control event 706 will be triggered.

A positive result from one rule 708 will cause the controller to actuatea motor that inclines an exercise platform. This rule requires theexerciser to establish and maintain for at least 5 seconds a conditionwhere the amplitude change of B (plus an error margin) is greater thanthe amplitude change of A. As one method discovered duringexperimentation, an exerciser may achieve this condition whileexercising by staring intensely at one end of the machine, andvisualizing that end of the machine being elevated by the motor. Thismental exercise is just one proven example of how to reduce theamplitude of the alpha frequency, while elevating the amplitude of thebeta frequency. A positive result from another rule 709 means that theamplitude changes of A and B are substantially equal, indicating that nocontrol signal is desired by the exerciser. The control circuit defaultsto a “null” status and ne event is triggered.

Yet another rule 710 is established so that an exerciser can reverse theinclination of the exercise machine. More specifically, if the amplitudeof the B frequency is less than the amplitude of the A frequency for aperiod of not less than 10 seconds, the inclined machine will begin todecline to a new position of one “increment”. An increment may bedefined as a 5-degree incline or decline, but the actual incrementamount is irrelevant, and any preprogrammed increment may be used. Asone method discovered during experimentation, an exerciser may achievethis condition while exercising by closing their eyes and meditating onthe wind-down of one exercise, relaxing and reducing overall muscleactivity prior to starting the next exercise in a sequence of exercises.This mental exercise is just one proven example of how to reduce theamplitude of the beta frequency, while elevating the amplitude of thealpha frequency.

A final rule 711 is used to anticipate the end of an exercise routine byconcluding that the reduction in muscle activity, and the eyes-closedmeditation condition is persisting for more than 30 seconds. As a resultof a positive result of this rule, the inclined exercise machine beginsto return to its horizontal starting point, readying for exerciserdismount.

As can be seen, the exerciser, through the use of mental imaging, isable to increase or decrease the incline of an exercise machine. Itshould be noted that machine incline is but one of many elements of anexercise environment, and the control signals and rules of theimmediately preceding example may be modified to apply to controlling anelement other than machine incline or decline.

FIGS. 8 a-8 c are exemplary diagrams showing a representative exerciserwearing a throat microphone, and a list of voice command instructions,and a block diagram of a control circuit for adjusting an exercisemachine.

As another means of controlling elements if an exercise environment, anexerciser 200 is shown with a band 800 affixed to the neck. A microphone801 is retained by the band, securing the microphone against the skinproximal to the vocal cords. Throat microphones are well known by thoseskilled in the art, and are frequently used as a hands-freecommunication means.

Used separately, or in conjunction with an EEG and/or EMG headband, thethroat microphone provides for an exerciser to thoughtfully considerwhat element of their environment that prefer to change, and rememberinga series of word or phrase commands 802 can actuate a controllerfunction via a voice recognition circuit not shown. A list of controllerfunctions 803 is shown but is not intended to be limiting. Any elementof the exercise environment may be controlled by a voice commandseparately or in conjunction with EEG and/or EMG input.

As one example of a voice recognition module activating multiplecontroller output signals, a control module 804 is installed on anexercise machine not shown. The microphone is in wireless communicationwith a voice signal receiver module 805 that incorporates an A/Dconversion circuit, a preprogrammed processor 806 containing a list ofrecognized words and the associated instruction that are communicated toa multi-function controller 807.

Six controller output signals 808 are shown, but ten or more outputsignals are possible, each controlling a different element of theexerciser's environment. The number of controller output signals islimited only by reason of the number of elements desired to becontrolled. It is preferable, however, that the controller 807 processesonly one input request at a time, with a reasonable delay prior toinitiating the next command in a string of voice commands.

As one illustration of the use of mind-initiated voice control inconjunction with mind-initiated EEG controls, the exerciser, havinginitiated the elevation sequence by meeting the B>A EEG rule (FIG. 7,708 ) desires to stop the elevation actuator prior to the elevationreaching a predetermined increment. By initiating a voice command, forexample “stop elevation”. As shown in the drawing, the command sends aninterrupt instruction 808 to the elevation controller, thereby providingthe exerciser with multiple method of mind-controlling the machineelevation element of their exercise environment.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, providing exerciserswith the ability to mind-control a plurality of elements within theirexercise environment allow exercisers to continue exercising withoutinterruption while changing any element desired. The increasedefficiency and mind-machine engagement reduces the overall workout timeby eliminating the traditional start-stop sequence required whenever anexerciser changes a machine setting. Further, they will appreciate thatthe reduced exercise time provides for a gym facility to conduct moreexercise classes within any given period of daily operation, therebycreating more operating revenue and profit.

Any and all headings are for convenience only and have no limitingeffect. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific termsused herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one ofordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Althoughspecific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic anddescriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Allpublications, patent applications, patents, and other referencesmentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety to theextent allowed by applicable law and regulations.

The data structures and code described in this detailed description aretypically stored on a computer readable storage medium, which may be anydevice or medium that can store code and/or data for use by a computersystem. This includes, but is not limited to, magnetic and opticalstorage devices such as disk drives, magnetic tape, CDs (compact discs),DVDs (digital video discs), and computer instruction signals embodied ina transmission medium (with or without a carrier wave upon which thesignals are modulated). For example, the transmission medium may includea telecommunications network, such as the Internet.

The exercise machine 900 preferably includes at least one actuator 910as illustrated in FIG. 9 of the drawings. The actuator is adapted tochange a state of the exercise machine 900. The state of the exercisemachine 900 may be comprised of various aspects such as, but not limitedto, attitude (pitch, roll and/or yaw of the exercise machine 900), aresistance level of the exercise machine, the amount of weight for theexercise machine to be lifted, the temp of the exercise machine, theworkout routine for the exercise machine and various other controllablestates for an exercise machine.

The exercise machine may be comprised of any type of exercise machineknown or developed in the future that has a state that is adjustablethat can be controlled. For example, the exercise machine may becomprised of a Pilates exercise machine, a treadmill, ellipticalmachine, rowing machine, weight lifting machine and the like. As shownin FIGS. 9 through 14 of the drawings, the exercise machine 900 is maybe comprised of a base 901, at least one rail 902 movably supportedabove the base 901, a carriage 903 movably positioned on the rail 902 ina slidable manner, and one or more actuators 910 connected between theframe of the exercise machine and the rail 902 to adjust the attitude ofthe rail (e.g. one or more actuators 910 a may be used to adjust thepitch of the exercise machine and one or more actuators 910 b may beused to adjust the roll of the exercise machine). The actuators 910, 910a, 910 b may be comprised of any actuator device capable of moving theexercise machine such as, but not limited to, electric actuators,hydraulic actuators, motorized actuators, motors, rotating motors,linear actuators and the like. The actuators 910, 910 a, 910 b mayextend and retract to move the exercise machine 900 and/or the actuators910, 910 a, 910 b may rotate to move the exercise machine 900.

The carriage 903 is adapted to move in a reciprocating manner on therail 902. Though not shown, the exercise machine may include two or morerails. The movable carriage preferably is connected to a resistancedevice 920 (e.g. springs, elastic bands, electronically controlledresistance device, etc.) that adjusts the level of resistance to thecarriage in at least one direction of movement of the carriage. Theresistance device 920 is adapted to provide a resistance force at aresistance level to the carriage during an exercise. The resistancedevice is further connected to the frame of the exercise machine such asthe rail, base or other structure that the carriage moves relative to.U.S. Publication No. US-2015-0360083-A1 to Lagree discloses an ExerciseMachine Adjustable Resistance System and Method suitable for use withthe various embodiments and is hereby incorporated by reference herein.The exercise machine 900 may also include a display panel 950 to displayvarious types of exercise related information to the exerciser (e.g.resistance level, pitch level, roll level, time remaining in theworkout, the amount of time worked out, the exercise routine, biometricinformation, bioelectric measurements by the bioelectrical sensor device320. The exercise machine may also include a routine controller 940which controls the current exercise routine for the exercise machine 900which may adjust the various states of the exercise machine to performdifferent types of exercises (e.g. adjustment of the pitch, roll, yaw,resistance and other adjustable features of the exercise machine 900).

U.S. Patent Pub. No. US-2015-0343250-A1 filed by Lagree discloses aMulti-Axis Adjustable Exercise Machine suitable for usage with thevarious embodiments of the present invention and is hereby incorporatedby reference herein. U.S. Pat. No. 7,803,095 to Lagree discloses anotherExercise Machine suitable for usage with the various embodiments of thepresent invention and is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

The various embodiments of the present invention use a sensor unit 310that preferably uses a bioelectrical sensor device 320 that is adaptedto detect a bioelectrical signal of a human exerciser before, during andafter the performance of an exercise. The bioelectrical sensor device320 includes one or more of each of the following types of biosensors:an electroencephalography (EEG) sensor, and an electromyography (EMG)sensor. The bioelectrical sensor device 320 is adapted to communicatewith the control unit by wired or wireless communication. The sensorunit 310 may also include an audio sensor device 602 that is incommunication with the control unit 620 and is adapted to receive audiocommands from the human exerciser as illustrated in FIG. 8 b of thedrawings.

A control unit 620 is in communication with the bioelectrical sensordevice and the exercise machine (wirelessly and/or wiredcommunications). The control unit 620 is adapted to receive data fromthe bioelectrical sensor device 320 (and audio sensor device 602)relating to measured bioelectrical signals of the human exerciser. Thecontrol unit 620 transmits a control signal to the exercise machine 900to change the state of the exercise machine based on the data from thebioelectrical sensor device 320 to perform the desired function by theexerciser. The control unit 620 controls the actuators 910, 910 a, 910 bof the exercise machine to control the pitch, roll and/or yaw of theexercise machine (or any combination thereof). The control unit 620further can control the resistance level provided to the carriage by theresistance device 920.

In addition, the control unit 620 may transmit a control signal tovarious other environmental systems in the building where the exerciseris performing an exercise such as, but not limited to, the HVAC system980 (to control temperature and climate conditions), the sound system982 (to control volume and the type of music playing during the workout)and room lighting 984 (to control the level and type of lighting in theroom).

To use the various embodiments of the present invention, thebioelectrical sensor device 320 and/or audio sensor device 602 arephysically connected to the human exerciser. The exerciser performs anexercise on the carriage 903 of the exercise machine 900. Thebioelectrical sensor device 320 detects one or more bioelectricalsignals of the human exerciser which are used by the control unit 620 tocalculate and determine how to control the exercise machine 900 (e.g.lift, lower, roll to the right, roll to the left, increase resistance,lower resistance) and/or various environmental elements (e.g. lighting,room temperature, song choice, music level). The control unit 620transmits the appropriate control signal(s) to the exercise machineand/or various environmental elements based on the detectedbioelectrical signal(s). For example, the control signal adjusts a stateof the actuator 910, 910 a, 910 b to correspondingly adjust the attitudeof the exercise machine (e.g. pitch, roll and/or yaw).

At least one embodiment of the bioelectrical signal controlled exercisemachine system is described above with reference to block and flowdiagrams of systems, methods, apparatuses, and/or computer programproducts according to example embodiments of the invention. It will beunderstood that one or more blocks of the block diagrams and flowdiagrams, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and flowdiagrams, respectively, can be implemented by computer-executableprogram instructions. Likewise, some blocks of the block diagrams andflow diagrams may not necessarily need to be performed in the orderpresented, or may not necessarily need to be performed at all, accordingto some embodiments of the invention. These computer-executable programinstructions may be loaded onto a general-purpose computer, aspecial-purpose computer, a processor, or other programmable dataprocessing apparatus to produce a particular machine, such that theinstructions that execute on the computer, processor, or otherprogrammable data processing apparatus create means for implementing oneor more functions specified in the flow diagram block or blocks. Thesecomputer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readablememory that can direct a computer or other programmable data processingapparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructionsstored in the computer-readable memory produce an article of manufactureincluding instruction means that implement one or more functionsspecified in the flow diagram block or blocks. As an example,embodiments of the invention may provide for a computer program product,comprising a computer usable medium having a computer-readable programcode or program instructions embodied therein, said computer-readableprogram code adapted to be executed to implement one or more functionsspecified in the flow diagram block or blocks. The computer programinstructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmabledata processing apparatus to cause a series of operational elements orsteps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus toproduce a computer-implemented process such that the instructions thatexecute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide elementsor steps for implementing the functions specified in the flow diagramblock or blocks. Accordingly, blocks of the block diagrams and flowdiagrams support combinations of means for performing the specifiedfunctions, combinations of elements or steps for performing thespecified functions, and program instruction means for performing thespecified functions. It will also be understood that each block of theblock diagrams and flow diagrams, and combinations of blocks in theblock diagrams and flow diagrams, can be implemented by special-purpose,hardware-based computer systems that perform the specified functions,elements or steps, or combinations of special-purpose hardware andcomputer instructions.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms withoutdeparting from the spirit or essential attributes thereof, and it istherefore desired that the present embodiment be considered in allrespects as illustrative and not restrictive. Many modifications andother embodiments of the bioelectrical signal controlled exercisemachine system will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which thisinvention pertains and having the benefit of the teachings presented inthe foregoing description and the associated drawings. Therefore, it isto be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the specificembodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments areintended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.Although methods and materials similar to or equivalent to thosedescribed herein can be used in the practice or testing of thebioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine system, suitablemethods and materials are described above. Thus, the bioelectricalsignal controlled exercise machine system is not intended to be limitedto the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest scopeconsistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A bioelectrical signal controlled exercisemachine system, comprising: an exercise machine; anelectroencephalography (EEG) sensor, wherein the electroencephalography(EEG) sensor is configured to record brain waves generated by a brain ofa human exerciser, wherein the brain waves measured by theelectroencephalography (EEG) sensor are comprised of an alpha wave and abeta wave, and wherein the electroencephalography (EEG) sensor isconfigured to transmit an EEG signal comprising an alpha wave amplitudeand a beta wave amplitude; and a control unit in communication with theelectroencephalography (EEG) sensor and the exercise machine, whereinthe control unit is configured to receive the EEG signal from theelectroencephalography (EEG) sensor, wherein the control unit determinesa control signal based on the alpha wave amplitude relative to the betawave amplitude and vice versa, and wherein the control unit adjusts astate of the exercise machine based on the control signal when the alphawave amplitude is greater or less than the beta wave amplitude and viceversa.
 2. The bioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine system ofclaim 1, wherein the exercise machine comprises a carriage movablypositioned on a rail, wherein the carriage is configured to move in areciprocating manner on the rail.
 3. The bioelectrical signal controlledexercise machine system of claim 2, wherein the exercise machineincludes a resistance device connected to the carriage, wherein theresistance device is configured to provide a resistance force at aresistance level to the carriage during an exercise, and wherein thestate of the exercise machine comprises the resistance level and thecontrol unit adjusts the resistance level by controlling the resistancedevice.
 4. The bioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine systemof claim 1, wherein the state of the exercise machine comprises aresistance level of the exercise machine.
 5. The bioelectrical signalcontrolled exercise machine system of claim 1, wherein the control unitis in communication with an HVAC system to control a temperature.
 6. Thebioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine system of claim 1,wherein the control unit is in communication with a sound system tocontrol a volume of the sound system.
 7. The bioelectrical signalcontrolled exercise machine system of claim 1, wherein the control unitis in communication with a room lighting to control a level of lightingin a room.
 8. The bioelectrical signal controlled exercise machinesystem of claim 1, further comprising an acquisition module; wherein theacquisition module is configured to multiplex bioelectrical signalsreceived from the electroencephalography (EEG) sensor and anelectromyography (EMG) sensor; and wherein the control unit isconfigured to receive multiplexed data from the acquisition module.
 9. Abioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine system, comprising: anexercise machine; an electroencephalography (EEG) sensor; wherein theelectroencephalography (EEG) sensor is configured to measure brainwavesignals generated by a brain of a human exerciser, wherein the brainwavesignals measured by the electroencephalography (EEG) sensor arecomprised of an alpha wave and a beta wave; and a control unit incommunication with the electroencephalography (EEG) sensor configuredto: receive data from the electroencephalography (EEG) sensor relatingto the brainwave signals of the human exerciser comprising an alpha waveamplitude and a beta wave amplitude; translate the brainwave signalsinto a control signal based on the alpha wave amplitude relative to thebeta wave amplitude and vice versa; and control the exercise machine inaccordance with the control signal to adjust a state of the exercisemachine when the alpha wave amplitude is greater or less than the betawave amplitude and vice versa.
 10. The bioelectrical signal controlledexercise machine system of claim 9, wherein the exercise machinecomprises a carriage movably positioned on a rail, wherein the carriageis configured to move in a reciprocating manner on the rail.
 11. Thebioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine system of claim 10,wherein the exercise machine includes a resistance device connected tothe carriage, wherein the resistance device is configured to provide aresistance force at a resistance level to the carriage during anexercise, and wherein the state of the exercise machine comprises theresistance level and the control unit adjusts the resistance level bycontrolling the resistance device.
 12. The bioelectrical signalcontrolled exercise machine system of claim 9, wherein the state of theexercise machine comprises a resistance level of the exercise machine.13. The bioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine system of claim9, wherein the control unit is in communication with an HVAC system andis configured to control a temperature of the HVAC system.
 14. Thebioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine system of claim 9,wherein the control unit is in communication with a sound system and isconfigured to control a volume of the sound system.
 15. Thebioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine system of claim 9,wherein the control unit is in communication with a room lighting and isconfigured to control a level of lighting in a room.
 16. Thebioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine system of claim 9,further comprising an acquisition module; wherein the acquisition moduleis configured to multiplex bioelectrical signals received from theelectroencephalography (EEG) sensor and an electromyography (EMG)sensor; and wherein the control unit is configured to receivemultiplexed data from the acquisition module.
 17. A bioelectrical signalcontrolled exercise machine system, comprising: an exercise machinehaving a resistance device, wherein the resistance device is configuredto apply a resistance force; an electroencephalography (EEG) sensor,wherein the electroencephalography (EEG) sensor is configured to recordbrain waves generated by a brain of a human exerciser, wherein the brainwaves measured by the electroencephalography (EEG) sensor are comprisedof an alpha wave and a beta wave, and wherein the electroencephalography(EEG) sensor is configured to transmit an EEG signal comprising an alphawave amplitude and a beta wave amplitude; and a control unit incommunication with the electroencephalography (EEG) sensor and theexercise machine, wherein the control unit is configured to receive theEEG signal from the electroencephalography (EEG) sensor, wherein thecontrol unit determines a control signal based on the alpha waveamplitude relative to the beta wave amplitude and vice versa, andwherein the control unit controls the resistance device of the exercisemachine based on the control signal when the alpha wave amplitude isgreater or less than the beta wave amplitude and vice versa.
 18. Thebioelectrical signal controlled exercise machine system of claim 17,wherein the exercise machine comprises a carriage movably positioned ona rail, wherein the carriage is configured to move in a reciprocatingmanner on the rail, wherein the resistance device is configured to applythe resistance force at a resistance level to the carriage during anexercise.
 19. The bioelectrical signal controlled exercise machinesystem of claim 17, wherein the control unit is in communication with anHVAC system, a sound system or a room lighting.
 20. The bioelectricalsignal controlled exercise machine system of claim 17, furthercomprising an acquisition module; wherein the acquisition module isconfigured to multiplex bioelectrical signals received from theelectroencephalography (EEG) sensor and an electromyography (EMG)sensor; and wherein the control unit is configured to receivemultiplexed data from the acquisition module.